John Foster was scrolling through Instagram when he saw it: a direct message from Randy Travis. At first, he thought it had to be fake—some fan account playing tricks. But it wasn’t. It was the Randy Travis, one of his musical heroes, reaching out just to say he’d been watching and was proud.

“I just sat there in disbelief,” John said. “It brought me to my knees.”

For the 18-year-old from Addis, Louisiana, that message meant more than any headline, rumor, or trending video. In the middle of the whirlwind that is American Idol, a quiet moment of encouragement from a country legend was everything.

From Small Town to Center Stage
John has become one of Season 23’s breakout stars—partly because of his voice, partly because of that ever-present cowboy hat, but mostly because of his heart. He’s made it to the Top 5 not by chasing trends, but by staying true to his roots: faith, family, and music with meaning.

“No, I haven’t signed anything yet,” he shared, addressing the growing buzz about record deals. “Right now, it’s all about the music—and staying focused on where I am.”

But make no mistake: where he is is big. His social media following has exploded—from just a few thousand to hundreds of thousands of fans who’ve fallen in love with his story and sound. “This show is like rocket fuel,” John joked. “It’s a blessing, but it’s intense.”

A Voice That Moves People
It’s not just his voice that’s turning heads—it’s the way he sings with real emotion. When he performed “Believe,” his mom was in the audience in tears, right alongside the judges. Then, on Disney Night, he completely shifted gears, lighting up the stage with a joyful take on “Almost There” from The Princess and the Frog.

That ability to move between heartbreak and hope is part of what makes John special. He’s not just singing songs—he’s telling stories.

Still the Same Kid at Heart
Even with the fame and fanfare, John’s kept his feet on the ground. He recently helped raise over $5,000 for cancer research and spent time connecting with fans during downtime at Disneyland. Whether in a studio or at a fundraiser, he’s showing people who he really is: a kind, humble guy who just loves music.

And that message from Randy Travis? It reminded him why he started—singing gospel in church, picking his guitar on his grandparents’ porch, and dreaming that maybe one day, his songs would matter.

He’s met some of his biggest inspirations along the way—Josh Groban gave him calming advice before a big performance, and Jelly Roll and Miranda Lambert offered words of encouragement he’ll never forget.

Just Getting Started
John Foster may be close to the Idol finale, but he’s just beginning his journey. Whether or not he takes home the trophy, one thing’s clear: this is an artist with staying power.

As he said with a smile, “I’m almost there… but the best part’s still ahead.”

John Foster reminded us once again why America fell in love with his voice. In one of the most emotional moments of American Idol Season 23, the Louisiana native delivered a haunting cover of Travis Tritt’s “Anymore”—and it hit like a whispered goodbye.

From the very first note, John didn’t just sing the song—he lived it. With raw honesty and a voice full of ache, he turned the country classic into something deeply personal. There were no big stage tricks or over-the-top moments. Just John, his guitar, and a story of heartbreak told with quiet power. It was the kind of performance that leaves a room still and a crowd speechless.

Viewers and judges alike praised John for the sincerity in his delivery and his ability to breathe fresh life into a beloved classic. Many fans said it reminded them of why they fell in love with country music in the first place—because it’s about truth, pain, and heart.

But just when you thought you had John Foster figured out, he flipped the script.

On Disney Night, he returned to the stage with a burst of joy, performing “Almost There” from The Princess and the Frog. Dressed in charm and confidence, John brought a feel-good energy that lit up the room. His smile was contagious, his vocals strong, and his stage presence electric.

The switch from sorrow to celebration showed more than just range—it showed heart. John didn’t just prove he could sing anything; he showed he could feel everything. And fans noticed. Many said it felt like watching a whole new side of John come to life.

In back-to-back performances, John Foster gave us both the tears and the triumph. He’s not just a singer—he’s a storyteller, a mood-setter, and a reminder that real talent can’t be boxed in. Whether he’s singing about heartbreak or hope, one thing’s clear: John Foster is the real deal.

One of the most unforgettable moments on American Idol 2025 wasn’t a performance—it was a moment of pure, heartfelt truth. Country star Jelly Roll, serving as the show’s first-ever Artist in Residence, delivered a powerful tribute that left not a dry eye in the house.

It happened after 18-year-old John Foster from Addis, Louisiana poured his heart into an original song, “Tell That Angel I Love Her.” The ballad, written in memory of his late friends Maggie Dunn and Caroline Gill, had already touched hearts across the country. But what happened next made the performance even more special.

Jelly Roll surprised everyone by walking onstage with a handwritten letter—something personal he wanted to share with John.

“John, your performance touched my soul,” he read, his voice thick with emotion. “The depth of your feeling and the honesty in your voice reminded me why I fell in love with music in the first place.”

The room fell silent. Judges looked on with tearful eyes. Fans in the audience held their breath. Jelly Roll went on:

“In a world where authenticity is rare, you stand out. Your pain, your truth, your heart—it all pours through your music. That’s what makes you a true artist.”

The moment was raw and real. John stood speechless, overcome by emotion. Carrie Underwood, also visibly moved, echoed what so many were feeling: “He’s not just talented—he’s honest. And that’s what country music needs.”

Jelly Roll’s presence this season hasn’t just been about coaching—it’s been about connection. His bond with John Foster reminded everyone watching that American Idol is still about more than just singing. It’s about storytelling. Healing. Honoring the people we’ve lost and the feelings we can’t forget.

This wasn’t just a reality show moment. It was life, unfiltered. And for a few minutes, everyone watching remembered why music matters.

Jamal Roberts just lived the kind of week dreams are made of. Just hours before he was crowned the winner of American Idol Season 23, the Mississippi native welcomed a brand-new title into his life—“Dad” once again—with the birth of his baby girl, Gianna Grace Roberts.

On May 17, Roberts shared the sweet news on social media, introducing the world to his newborn daughter with a set of touching photos. One image showed little Gianna in a onesie that read, “My dad is the next American Idol.” At the time, it was just a hopeful sentiment. But not long after, it turned into reality.

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“Hey world, meet my little ladybug 😩, Gianna Grace Roberts. I am so proud to be her father 😭,” he wrote, capturing the raw joy of the moment.

Roberts kept the pregnancy private during the competition, calling it “so personal.” It’s a reflection of the humility and sincerity fans have come to love him for. Though he hasn’t shared much about his family life publicly, it’s known that he’s also a proud dad to two older daughters, Harmoni and Lyrik. They’ve been a meaningful part of his Idol story—cheering him on through every high note and heartfelt moment.

The Idol finale on May 18 was one for the books. Roberts stood shoulder to shoulder with fellow finalists John Foster and Breanna Nix, delivering a night of unforgettable performances. From his emotional cover of TEEKS’ “First Time” to a soulful version of The Temptations’ “Just My Imagination,” Jamal owned the stage. He even joined Jelly Roll—his mentor and supporter—for a high-energy mashup of “Liar” and “Unpretty,” earning a standing ovation from the crowd.

Then came the moment of truth. As host Ryan Seacrest announced Roberts as the winner, the singer dropped to his knees, overwhelmed with emotion and gratitude.

In a livestream after the show, Jamal summed it all up with humility and heart:
“I’m speechless. This is my dream, and it just came true… That just goes to show, don’t give up on your dreams. Keep fighting. Keep working, and it will come to pass.”
He added, “First, I’m giving honor to God who is the head of my life. I’m thanking Him for this opportunity.”

With a new baby in his arms and a new chapter ahead, Jamal Roberts is walking into the future with a full heart and steady faith. The confetti may have fallen, but his story is just getting started—and it’s already a beautiful one.

He may have finished second on American Idol, but John Foster just scored something way bigger than a trophy—a potential record deal with Brooks & Dunn’s label, Arista Nashville.

Just days after his powerful finale performance, country music legends Ronnie Dunn and Kix Brooks reportedly extended an offer to bring the 22-year-old Tennessee native into their musical family. The duo, known for their commitment to classic country roots, had been keeping a close eye on Foster throughout the season.

“He’s got that rare spark,” Kix Brooks shared in a statement. “Reminds me a little of Travis Tritt and Randy Travis, but he’s got his own sound. We believe in what he’s doing, and we want to help him make music that really lasts.”

If the deal goes through, John will join a star-studded roster at Arista Nashville, alongside artists like Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood, and of course, Brooks & Dunn. It’s a major vote of confidence for a guy who was just singing on his grandparents’ porch in Knoxville not too long ago.

John’s raw, emotional performances—especially his original songs—touched fans across the country. His finale track, “Back Road Revival,” even climbed to No. 2 on the iTunes Country Chart within a day of its release, proving he’s already got a loyal following.

But behind the scenes, the end of Idol brought unexpected challenges. After the show wrapped, John was hospitalized with vocal cord strain and stress-related fatigue. The whirlwind of attention, pressure, and expectations took a toll.

“He gave everything he had,” a family member shared. “He wanted to make people proud, and he felt like he didn’t do enough. But when the call from Brooks & Dunn came, it gave him a reason to keep going. He told us, ‘If they believe in me, maybe I really do have what it takes.’”

Now back on his feet, John is expected to finalize the deal this summer. Early plans for a debut EP are already in motion, with Brooks & Dunn reportedly helping him build a dream songwriting team—and rumors of a duet with the duo have fans buzzing.

He didn’t win the Idol title, but John Foster may have just won something even better: a chance to build the kind of music career he’s always dreamed of—authentic, soulful, and built to last.

As Ronnie Dunn reportedly told him after the show, “Second place doesn’t mean it’s over. It just means your real story’s about to begin.”

John Foster may not have taken home the American Idol title, but let’s be real—he didn’t need confetti to walk off a winner.

He didn’t show up for flash or fame. He showed up with a song, a story, and a heart that’s been through more than most his age. “Tell That Angel I Love Her” wasn’t some polished radio single written by a Nashville team—it came straight from his soul. John wrote it alone, for his late friend Maggie Dunn, and you could feel every bit of that pain and love in every word he sang.

It wasn’t just a performance—it was a moment. A eulogy set to music. And fans across the country felt it. That’s not something that fades when the cameras stop rolling.

In a world chasing the next viral soundbite, John Foster gave us something rare: honesty. While others are crafting TikTok trends, he’s already talking about heading back to the studio. “I love being in the studio,” he said, with the kind of grin that tells you it’s not about the spotlight—it’s about the music.

And let’s not forget—he’s still just a teenager. Yet he sings with the soul of someone who’s lived a hundred lifetimes. His voice carries the weight of real loss and real love, with the grit of classic country and the rawness of gospel roots.

Sure, Jamal Roberts won the crown—and rightfully so—but Foster left the stage with his head high and heart full. “To think I’m No. 2 out of 120,000…” he said with quiet pride. And if history’s any clue, second place can be just the beginning (just ask Jennifer Hudson or Chris Daughtry).

Someone asked if he’d ever do Dancing With the Stars. He laughed, “It’s not a no.” But don’t expect sequins and ballroom shoes anytime soon—John’s more likely to be found barefoot with a guitar, writing his next heartbreak anthem in a barn somewhere.

For now? He’s going home to hug his dog. No fancy rollout. No hype. Just a good kid headed back to the roots that ground him.

In a noisy industry filled with gimmicks and trends, John Foster stands out—because he’s real. His songs feel like stories passed down on a front porch. They linger like memories, not marketing.

The Grand Ole Opry will call. Not because he asked. But because he earned it.

You can keep the trophy. John Foster walked away with something far better: truth, talent, and the kind of authenticity you just can’t fake.

From May 16–18, nearly 40,000 country music fans gathered in Gulf Shores, Alabama, for the first-ever Sand In My Boots festival—and it was one for the books! Created by CMA Entertainer of the Year Morgan Wallen, the festival sold out lightning-fast when tickets dropped last October.

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The star-studded weekend featured performances from country favorites like Brooks & Dunn, HARDY, Post Malone, Riley Green, and of course, Morgan Wallen himself, who wrapped up the event with a show-stopping set on Sunday night. The festival also coincided with Wallen’s massive new 37-track album I’m The Problem, which released on Friday, May 17.

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Riley Green Shines on Stage—and Delivers a Surprise

Taking the stage on Saturday, May 17, Alabama native Riley Green delivered a high-energy set packed with fan favorites, including his popular duet with Ella Langley, “You Look Like You Love Me.”

But the highlight of the night came when Riley surprised the crowd by bringing out country powerhouse Randy Houser. Together, they paid tribute to the late, great Toby Keith with an unforgettable duet of his hit song, “Should’ve Been A Cowboy.”

Originally released in 1993, Toby’s debut single shot to No. 1 on the Billboard country charts and became one of his most iconic songs. Since Toby’s passing, the song has taken on even more meaning for fans—and Riley and Randy’s heartfelt performance gave it the respect it deserves. The crowd sang along with every word, creating a truly special moment.

There’s no doubt Toby Keith would’ve been proud.

@natnine

Should’ve Been a Cowboy | Riley Green & Randy Houser #SandInMyBoots #MissKitty #ShouldveBeenACowboy #Rodeo @Riley Green

♬ original sound – JustJames

Blake Shelton made a rowdy return to The Voice, and fans couldn’t get enough! Two years after stepping away from his red chair, Blake hit the stage during the Season 27 finale to perform his smash hit “Texas”—and it was pure country gold.

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The song, which dropped in November 2024, has been a major win for Blake. Not only did “Texas” set a personal record for most first-week radio adds in his career, but it also recently climbed all the way to #1—marking his 30th career chart-topper!

Blake gave the crowd a show to remember, performing in front of a desert-themed set complete with oil rigs and Texas vibes. It was the perfect setting for his high-energy anthem, which tips its hat to George Strait’s “All My Ex’s Live in Texas.”

Shelton may have left the coaching panel in Season 23 to focus on family life, but his bond with The Voice and its fans is still going strong. His return—alongside Kelly Clarkson—was a highlight of the finale and a sweet reminder of why fans fell in love with him in the first place.

Dolly Parton has spent more than 60 years building one of the most successful music careers of all time—and now she’s opening up about what it really took to get there.

The beloved country icon left her small Tennessee hometown decades ago with big dreams and a heart full of songs. Since then, she’s sold over 100 million records, scored 25 No. 1 hits, and released 44 Top 10 country albums. She’s earned shelves full of awards and inspired generations of artists. But behind all the glitz and glory? There were real sacrifices.

On May 19, during the grand opening of a new exhibit in her honor at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Dolly got candid about the parts of life she had to put aside to chase her dreams.

“I’ve sacrificed time with family and friends. I gave up vacations for work without end. 24/7…365,” she shared honestly. “But I was willing to make that sacrifice. Empty or full, I’ve carried my pain. But you don’t drink the water if you don’t dig the well.”

With typical Dolly grace and wisdom, she added, “Grindstones and rhinestones have made up my life. And you ask, ‘Was it worth the sacrifice?’ Well, I reckon it was because I’m here tonight.”

Her words struck a chord with fans, who flooded the comments with messages of love, admiration, and gratitude.

“She has to be THE most incredible human being and such an inspirational speaker,” one person wrote.
“Dolly is truly a National Treasure! What an iconic woman!” added another.
And someone summed it up perfectly: “One of the only people who deserves the moniker of LEGEND.”

Dolly’s story reminds us that success rarely comes easy—but when it’s built with heart, grit, and purpose, it can change the world. And she’s done exactly that.

Season 23 of American Idol came to a thrilling close with a three-hour finale, and when the final votes were in, it was clear: Jamal Roberts had won America’s heart — and the entire competition! The proud father of three walked away with not only a recording contract and cash prize, but also an unexpected honor from one of the show’s biggest stars.

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Carrie Underwood, who was a guest mentor this season and a longtime Idol favorite, gave Jamal a truly one-of-a-kind shoutout — she named her newborn lamb after him!

In a sweet Instagram post, Carrie introduced fans to the newest addition to her farm. “Surprise! We’ve got another new life around the farm!” she wrote, sharing adorable snapshots of the baby lamb snuggled up and getting cozy in his new home.

“This little guy happened to be born on the day of the American Idol finale,” she explained in the caption. “So we figured it would only be right if we named him Jamal!!!”

Carrie added that both the mama sheep and baby Jamal were doing great — and that she’s soaking up every minute of lamb cuddles. “I’m popping by the barn to get snuggles every chance I get!” she gushed.

Fans couldn’t get enough of the heartfelt gesture — and the cuteness overload. One follower commented, “Never in a MILLION years did Jamal Roberts dream that Carrie Underwood would name a lamb after him!! This takes dreams coming true to a WHOLE new level!!”

Another wrote, “This is absolutely the perfect name,” while someone else added, “So stinkin’ cute! Yay Jamal!”

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If you know Carrie, you know she’s just as passionate about life on her farm as she is about music. When she’s not rocking the stage, the “Before He Cheats” singer enjoys a peaceful life tending to her animals, gardening, and even crocheting her own clothes!

Now, with a new lamb named after an Idol champion, it’s clear Carrie’s heart is just as big as her voice. And for Jamal Roberts, this sweet tribute is one more unforgettable moment in a year full of milestones.